National Air Traffic Management Plan released

Supports the Government's decision to establish a Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) test-bed project.

The national Air Traffic Management plan provides guidance to Australia's aviation agencies and industry on how Australia's ATM system will respond to the air traffic challenges.

Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester welcomed today's release of the plan and said it would provide a blueprint for future initiatives that would continue Australia's strong aviation safety record.

“The plan recognises that air traffic management is advancing in technology and Australia will be implementing a state of the art, national ATM system,” Mr Chester said.

Mr Chester said the plan supports the Australian Government's recent decision to invest in the Satellite Based Augmentation System (SBAS) test-bed project.

“SBAS has potential application in all transport industry sectors across Australia,” Mr Chester said. “In aviation, SBAS can be used to increase the accuracy of aircraft and air traffic management operations providing potential safety, efficiency and environmental benefits in capital city and regional locations.

“The new ATM Plan complements Australia's updated State Safety Programme released in 2016 by outlining priorities and initiatives which will not only enhance aviation safety but also improve aircraft efficiency, capacity, and environmental performance.

“In finalising the plan, we have taken into account agency and industry feedback.

“The plan is also consistent with the International Civil Aviation Organization's (ICAO) Global Air Navigation Plan and the Global Aviation Safety Plan—the two key international planning documents for aviation.”